I love this recipe, it is a great snack for when I am craving something sweet and since it is sugar free it is great for my health. I also find that they fill me up, so I don’t have to eat heaps of them to satisfy that craving.
I make these for family and friends as Christmas gifts and after all the indulgent food they have eaten, they are thankful for something healthy and yummy at the same time. They look fantastic inside a small colourful bowl, wrapped in cellophane and tied with Christmas ribbon. I usually double the recipe so there is enough for everyone. Makes about 30 small balls.
Ingredients:
- 5 cups (225g) Whole Almonds (and or Walnuts, Cashews – whatever nuts you have handy!)
- 15 Medjool Dates, pitted
- 1 tablespoon Chia Seeds
- 1 tablespoon Cacao Powder/Cocoa Powder
- 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil
- Zest of 1 Orange
Method:
- Place the nuts into a food processor and blend until they are finely ground.
- Add the dates, chia seeds, cocoa powder, coconut oil and orange zest and blend until the mixture is completely combined and holds together when you press a chunk together.
- Roll into large teaspoon sized balls using your hands, then place in the fridge to cool for 30 mins-1 hour.
I store these in the fridge in an airtight container and they last for a week or so.
Walnuts are great for the kidneys and if you are trying to conceive, they are especially beneficial for men!
Written by:
Dr Kate Howden
Acupuncturist
Dr. Kate Howden is an empathetic and caring practitioner, with over a decade of nursing experience, in both general and psychiatric nursing. And now years of experience as a Chinese Medicine practitioner. She takes a holistic approach to client care and loves seeing people feel better about themselves.
Kate has a particular passion for women’s health. She is a mother with her own children and stepchildren and understands the many challenges women face.
She enjoys regular games of netball and long walks with her partner.